Visual Communications (BA Honours)

Course Code

Field of Study

Type of Course:

Type of Qualification:

Type of Study:

Application Closing Date:

Please note the CAO closing date is 1st February, late application will not be accepted.

Course duration:

4 Years (8 semesters)

Admission Requirements:

For admission to a programme, standard applicants must

score the necessary CAO points and

meet the minimum entry requirements

Leaving Certificate in six subjects i.e. H5 in two subjects, and O6/H7 in four other subjects. The six subjects must include English or Irish.There is no specific Mathematics requirement. Grade F2 or higher in Foundation Level Mathematics is recognised as one of the subjects.

Please note the CAO closing date is 1st February, late application will not be accepted.

Leaving Cert Subjects:

Helpful subjects are Art, and English.

Course summary

The course pays particular attention to the development of each student's ability to respond to visual design problems in an individual, inventive and creative manner. The program aims to produce graduates who can display the capacity for innovation in the area of Visual Communications (Level 8).

What is Visual Communications?

Visual Communication is the art of problem-solving and communication through the use of type, space, and image. It presents the idea that a graphic message has the power to inform, educate, or persuade a person or audience. It can be presented as a still image, or motion graphics, including sound and in some cases interactive media.

About the Course

CR600 Course Location: Please note that the CIT Crawford College of Art & Design is the College in which the BA (Honours) in Visual Communications is managed. The Department of Media Communication is one of three Departments within CCAD. However, the course is delivered in the CIT Bishopstown Campus.

Visual Communications, also known as Graphic Design encourages you to think creatively and produce new design ideas and concepts. From pitching a design brief to a client, to producing graphics, a new brand, layout for interface or illustration for a book, you will go on a journey to understand who you are as a designer.

You will be introduced to the most up-to-date design and media industry software and hardware. The course will also support the development of critical awareness to assist you in your academic studies. You will be given the opportunity to develop your presentation skills and learn to create innovative approaches to

Question Time

How much Art is involved in this course?
A portfolio is a requirement for entry to the course so drawing skills are required. In first year the students are assisted with modules in creative image-making to encourage drawing and mark making skills.

What is the difference between Visual Communications and Creative Digital Media?

Visual Communications is a graphic design course that focuses on creative design for the printed and electronic media.

Graduate Profile

Paul Delaney
Graphic Designer

Paul Delaney graduated with a first class honours in Visual Communications from CIT Crawford College of Art & Design in 2006. Paul is a Creative Director of a branding agency he established called Visible Inc. He assists businesses to develop their brand through the implementation of professional visual communication strategies across a range of print and web platforms.

Paul’s graphic artworks have been exhibited and sold throughout Ireland and the UK in both group and solo Exhibitions. In 2015 Paul launched a home furnishing collection from his illustrations and he has designed a number of picture books.

Paul’s advice

Use your time wisely on the course, and learn from the experience and advice of the staff, to help you pursue, explore and develop your individual passions. This is what will help you to stand out from the crowd when you graduate while also clarifying the direction you want to go with your design skills.

“I loved every minute of my time on the BA (hons) in Visual Communications. I now work in my dream job, all thanks to the advice, support and encouragement I received while studying at CIT CCAD”.

CIT has developed a website which gives full details of all modules for all courses. The website also has information on recommended textbooks, average weekly workload, assessments, and exams.

The course will equip you to work in the exciting world of design. There are jobs in graphic design, advertising and creative digital media in which you can be employed. After graduating you have the opportunity to start up your own business. Visual Communications graduates can also go on to further studies to Master’s degree level and PhD.

CAO 1st Round:

Entry 2017: 490 (A special points system operates for admission to CR 600. This involves aggregating the points scored for the Leaving Certificate and for the Portfolio. Points are awarded out of 600 using the normal CAO points system applied to six subjects. A further 600 points are available for the Portfolio, making a total of 1200 maximum. A minimum of 240 (40%) points must be obtained in the Portfolio Assessment in order for an applicant to be eligible for the course. See overview tab for more information)